The best MTB trails around Hafravatn

Just a few minutes from Reykjavik, Vífilsstaðahlíð is an oasis of wooded hills perfect for walking or cycling. Its trails offer sweeping views of the bay and the capital. The site takes its name from Vífilsstaðir, an old farm mentioned in the Viking sagas. Today, amidst tranquil nature and historical remains like the old tuberculosis hospital, it is a place where sport and history go hand in hand.

As of August 18, 2025: Iceland experienced its twelfth volcanic eruption in just over four years. On the sparsely populated Reykjanes Peninsula, southwest of Reykjavik, the earth opened up again on Wednesday, July 16. Since Tuesday, August 5, no more lava has been escaping from the eruption fissure located approximately seven kilometers northeast of Grindavik. Volcanologists believe it is highly likely that the eruption has ended for the time being. The temporarily closed campsite in the town of Grindavik is now freely accessible again.

Really impressive in the old lava fields

Árbær was an established farm well into the 20th century, and the museum opened there in 1957. Árbær is now an open air museum with more than 20 buildings which form a town square, a village and a farm. Most of the buildings have been relocated from central Reykjavik. Árbær Open Air Museum tries to give a sense of the architecture and way of life and lifestyles of the past in Reykjavík and during summer visitors can see domestic animals. There are many exhibitions and events held at the Museum which highlight specific periods in Reykjavik's history. These include craft days, vintage car displays, Christmas exhibitions and much more. There is something for everyone at Árbær Open Air Museum. (https://visitreykjavik.is/arbaer-open-air-museum)

The fissure is surrounded by ancient lava flows that have cooled and solidified, forming a rugged, rocky landscape. Despite the volcanic terrain, the area is home to a surprising amount of vegetation adapted to lava soil, as well as birds and other animals typical of Iceland.

It is a unique geological feature located near Reykjavik in Iceland. It is a canyon formed by a volcanic fissure in the Hafnarfjörður region on the Reykjanes Peninsula. It is a fascinating place for both its geology and natural beauty. Near Búrfellsgjá is the Búrfell crater, which is an impressive volcanic feature in itself. This crater is almost perfectly shaped and offers a closer look at the volcanic activity that formed the region.

It is close to the town of Hafnarfjörður, about 55 minutes by bike from Reykjavík. Although it is not very high, at approximately 340 metres above sea level, it is a popular hiking destination due to its panoramic views and easy access. It is part of the Krýsuvík volcanic system, which explains its rocky terrain and the presence of ancient lava flows in its surroundings. It has marked hiking routes that are not too demanding, ideal for hikers of all levels. On a clear day, from the summit you can see Reykjavík, Hafnarfjörður and even the Atlantic Ocean.

Like many mountains in Iceland, Helgafell has special significance in the Icelandic sagas and is associated with stories of early Viking settlements in the region. Helgafell literally means "Holy Mountain" in Icelandic. It is a common name for mountains and hills in Iceland due to its cultural and spiritual significance, but the most well-known one near Reykjavik is Helgafell.